It may sound redundant to say it, but just as your firearms may rust over periods of time in which they are shelved, so will your precision. Controlling both your nerves and your weapon in a moment of panic can be nearly impossible without proper training, therefore it is imperative that gun owners practice with their weapons regularly. Many owners take seriously the process of cleaning their firearms, yet some do not take the initiative to practice their aim on a monthly basis. With just a bit of practice at the gun range, accidents can be reduced significantly, and more importantly, citizens can rise to the occasion to protect themselves or their loved ones in the most efficient manner possible.
Professionals Need Practice, Too
If this fact doesn’t say it all, then you may not fully understand the gravity of your weapon. Police and military officials regularly spend time practicing with their weapon at a shooting range to ensure that their reaction times are quick and each shot will count. While the tactics for returning fire in the military are quite different than that of law enforcement, annual testing is required for both parties to qualify for the right to carry their firearms on duty. If professionals are required to pass testing in order to maintain their right to carry, then it’s not unreasonable for individuals to do so as well. In fact, in some states, quarterly testing is required, in which case departments will supply their officers with practice ammunition for shooting range training.
Increasing Response Time
For most citizens, practicing with their firearm can program the processes of cleaning, loading, and drawing the weapon into their minds. But for law enforcement officials or military personnel, the dire necessity to respond quickly in a situation of danger is what practice mainly achieves. Sure, accuracy can always be improved upon, but reaction time has to be built in through experience in the field or at a gun range. In order to cut down on any potential mistakes being made while on duty, intensive training at the shooting range, practice courses, or simulators can be conducted for officers to gain full confidence with their weapon.
Recommended Training
The longer each person goes without shooting, the more unfamiliar they’ll be with their firearm and the process of shooting itself. On one hand, a visit to the gun store is like riding a bike, but on the other hand, it can take a few sessions to get your skills back. Up front, many states require a course to be completed in order for citizens to receive 
their CCW (concealed carry permit). Followed by that, it’s recommended that new gun owners attend a basic gun handling class to fill in any gaps of knowledge they may have. But after that, it’s up to you to be a responsible gun owner, and part of that title involves consistent practicing. Your local gun store can surely recommend classes lead by skilled instructors to help you practice in the best ways possible. After all, just like working out, many folks don’t have all of the best methods for training, so by asking the local gurus at your gun store questions about how you should train, you’ll catapult your way to competency in no time. Beyond all of the critical reasons why each gun owner should practice with their weapons, a visit to the gun range can be a fun way to blow off some steam while getting to know your firearm just a little bit better.
